Chorabari Glacier: Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Chorabari Glacier, also known as Chorabari Bamak Glacier, is a natural marvel located near the revered Kedarnath Temple. This glacier holds immense religious and geographical significance, serving as a primary source of the Mandakini River, a tributary of the Alaknanda River.
Chorabari Glacier: Location & Geographical Features
The Chorabari Glacier is situated between latitudes 30°44'50"N and 30°45'30"N and longitudes 79°1'16"E and 79°5'20"E. It stretches from the Kedarnath peak at an altitude of approximately 6,000 meters (20,000 feet) to 3,800 meters (12,500 feet).
Key Features of Chorabari Glacier:
- Total Length: 7 km
- Basin Area: 38 square km
- Ice Cover: 5.9 square km
- Slope: 11 degrees to the south
Gandhi Sarovar: The Lost Glacial Lake
At the snout of the Chorabari Glacier once existed Chorabari Lake, later renamed Gandhi Sarovar. It was situated at 3,900 meters (12,800 feet), about 2 km upstream from Kedarnath. The lake was named after Mahatma Gandhi, as a portion of his ashes was scattered here.
2013 Kedarnath Flood & Disappearance of Gandhi Sarovar
In June 2013, unprecedented monsoon rains led to rapid melting of snow, causing the water level of Gandhi Sarovar to rise by 7 meters (23 feet). On June 17, 2013, an avalanche struck the lake, exerting immense pressure on the moraine dam, leading to a catastrophic breach. This resulted in a flash flood that devastated Kedarnath and surrounding areas.
- Volume of water released: 262 million liters
- Peak discharge rate: 1,700 m³ per second
- Current state: The lake no longer exists; instead, a boulder-strewn flatland with a small rivulet remains.
Chorabari Glacier in the 21st Century
Like many other Himalayan glaciers, Chorabari Glacier has been shrinking due to climate change. The snout of the glacier has retreated several hundred meters over the past few decades, altering the flow of the Mandakini River.
The Chorabari Glacier and Gandhi Sarovar remain significant both spiritually and geologically. While the glacier continues to attract pilgrims and trekkers, the 2013 Kedarnath disaster stands as a reminder of nature’s power. As climate change accelerates glacier melting, preserving these fragile ecosystems becomes increasingly important.
Also Read - Devaria Tal : One of the Beautiful Lake in Rudraprayag
How to Reach Chorabari Glacier
Due to its proximity to Kedarnath Temple, reaching Chorabari Glacier is relatively easy. Here’s how you can visit:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun.
- By Rail: The closest railway station is Rishikesh.
- By Road: From Rishikesh, take a bus or taxi to Sonprayag.
- Trekking Route: A trek from Sonprayag to Kedarnath and further to the Chorabari Glacier takes you through mesmerizing Himalayan landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Chorabari Glacier & Gandhi Sarovar
1. Where is Chorabari Glacier located?
Chorabari Glacier is situated in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, near the Kedarnath Temple. It lies between 30°44'50"N to 30°45'30"N latitude and 79°1'16"E to 79°5'20"E longitude, at an altitude of 3,800 to 6,000 meters.
2. What is the significance of Chorabari Glacier?
Chorabari Glacier is the source of the Mandakini River, which is a major tributary of the Alaknanda River. It also played a role in the devastating 2013 Kedarnath floods.
3. How to reach Chorabari Glacier?
To reach Chorabari Glacier:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Rishikesh.
- By Road: Travel to Sonprayag, then trek via Kedarnath Temple towards the glacier.
4. What is Gandhi Sarovar?
Gandhi Sarovar, previously known as Chorabari Lake, was a glacial lake formed by the melting waters of Chorabari Glacier. It was renamed after some of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed here.
5. What happened to Gandhi Sarovar in 2013?
On June 17, 2013, heavy rainfall and an avalanche caused the dam holding back Gandhi Sarovar to burst, leading to a massive flash flood that devastated Kedarnath and surrounding areas. The lake no longer exists in its original form.
6. Can visitors trek to Gandhi Sarovar?
Yes, trekkers can visit the remnants of Gandhi Sarovar. It is about 2 km from Kedarnath Temple and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. However, it requires good physical fitness due to the high-altitude terrain.
7. Is the Chorabari Glacier retreating?
Yes, like many Himalayan glaciers, Chorabari Glacier is shrinking due to climate change. The glacier snout has receded significantly in the 21st century, impacting water availability and the regional ecosystem.
8. What is the best time to visit Chorabari Glacier and Gandhi Sarovar?
The best time to visit is between May and October, as the weather is clear and trekking routes are accessible. The monsoon season (July-August) should be avoided due to landslides and unpredictable weather.
9. What is the trekking difficulty level for Chorabari Glacier?
The trek from Kedarnath to Chorabari Glacier is moderate. While it is a short trek (about 2 km), the high altitude and uneven terrain can be challenging. It is recommended for physically fit individuals.
10. What precautions should be taken while visiting Chorabari Glacier?
- Acclimatize properly before trekking to avoid altitude sickness.
- Carry warm clothing and essential trekking gear.
- Avoid visiting during monsoon due to landslides and glacier melting.
- Follow local guidelines and restrictions for safety.
Keywords: Chorabari Glacier, Gandhi Sarovar, Kedarnath Trek, Chorabari Lake, Uttarakhand Tourism, Himalayan Glaciers, Kedarnath Flood 2013, Mandakini River, Uttarakhand Pilgrimage, Climate Change Effects in Himalayas.
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